What Happens When Someone Files a Fraudulent Tax Return Using Your SSN or ITIN

Recently, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has been sending notices to some taxpayers regarding fraudulent tax returns filed using the taxpayer’s social security number (SSN) or individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN).

The IRS has many security measures in place to verify the accuracy of tax returns, and the validity of SSNs or ITINs submitted.

What happens when the IRS receives a fraudulent return?

When the IRS receives what they believe is a fraudulent return, it will send you:

• LTR 4883C which states that it received a tax return using your name and SSN or ITIN. The letter asks that, if you did not file, call the Taxpayer Protection Program at 800-830-5084.
  
  
• LTR 12C indicating that they need more information from you or to reply “No” if you did not file.
  
  
• Notice CP5071 asking to verify the identity of a filed tax return and visit gov/VerifyReturn and reply “No” if you didn’t file.

According to the National Taxpayer Advocate's June 25, 2025, mid-year report to Congress, the IRS’ Taxpayer Services division, which helps consumers with questions regarding their taxes and processes returns, is expected to lose about 22% of its 42,134 workers.

This reduction in staff will slow down response time to issues that arise for taxpayers.